Lemon tree:

[Mike M.]

Is there anything wrong with trimming a lemon tree down to only limbs this time of year? Thanks, Mike

 

[JeffE]

A number of things, at any time of year. Why would you want to do that?

 

[Mike M.]

I thought it might completely change it's fruit bearing cycle.

 

[JeffE]

If the tree survived the damage without major trauma - and that's a big "if" - then it would likely produce much less fruit the following year, because it would be putting more of its resources into vegetative regrowth (shoots and leaves). Vigorous sprouting discourages fruit production. It wouldn't cause it to flower and fruit at a different time of year, if that's what you mean.

Removing most or all the foliage is extremely bad for any species of tree, and should be done only if you're expecting to have the tree removed.

 

[Mike M.]

Thanks JeffE!

 

[LightningLoader]

trimming lemon tree

Hedging citrus is a common practice here in FL. Most people do it in early summer, but they do not chop the trees back so far that there are no leaves left. The idea is to make your tree a uniform shape so that there is more surface area exposed to the sun, and thus more space to bear fruit. They also top the trees which would help you reach the fruit easier. My reccomendation would be to cut the lemon tree just like you would a hedge, and try to shape it like a dome.

General advise for better health and bearing:
fertilize Feb (before bloom), June, and Sept
use oil spray during summer as needed